If you have chronic venous insufficiency or CVI, you need the expert help of a vein surgeon. In Tampa, FL, Edward G. Mackay and Associates provide the diagnostics, procedures, and education which improve venous function and avoid complications, such as deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and leg ulcers.
Let’s talk about the questions to ask your vein surgeon during your in-office consultation.
Why Have I Developed CVI?
Chronic venous insufficiency can occur due to numerous risk factors, including:
- Gender (female more than male)
- Pregnancy
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Diet
- Lack of physical activity
- Standing in one position (for some jobs)
- Heredity (varicose veins seem to run in families)
- Injury to the lower extremities
All these conditions can impact blood circulation in the feet, ankles, and legs and change the function of these tiny check valves located within the veins.
Do I Have to Undergo Vein Surgery?
Microphlebectomy and phlebectomy (vein stripping) are two of the most frequently used surgical procedures to remove large varicose veins in the legs. However, smaller, less complex varicosities and tiny, purple spider veins in the face often respond well to conservative treatments, such as compression wear, medications, losing weight, etc.
Additionally, your vein surgeon in Tampa, FL, offers endovenous laser therapy, radiofrequency ablation, sclerotherapy, VenaSeal adhesive, etc. These innovative treatments alleviate symptoms by closing off the incompetent veins and rerouting blood circulation to healthier blood vessels.
Your care plan will depend on your symptoms, overall health, possible treatment outcomes, and the results of your in-office exam and imaging. Many CVI patients see their symptoms improve when they make lifestyle changes and follow their vein doctors’ care recommendations.
How Many Procedures Have You Performed?
If your specialist in Tampa, FL, advises you need vein stripping or laser therapy, ensure to ask how many procedures this specialist has performed and what treatment he can provide if problems tend to recur. Additionally, ensure your vein doctor is fully qualified by checking his or her credentials online. Dr. Edward Mackay is dual board-certified in general and vascular surgery with years of experience in numerous surgeries and non-invasive treatments alike
Will My Vein Problems Return?
Unfortunately, research reveals that people who have CVI–serious varicose vein problems develop significant risk of recurrence if they remain overweight, smoke, or continue with other risk factors, such as a sedentary lifestyle. However, the choice of surgeon and corrective procedure also play important roles in recovery and prevention of recurrence.
As such, patients are advised to do some homework on their choice of vein specialist and the success rate with their particular procedure. It is also the patient’s responsibility to follow doctor-prescribed care plans, including the use of compression wear to provide support and protection to the affected areas.
Edward G. Mackay and Associates in The Tampa, FL, Area
An informed patient feels confident in his or her vein doctor and care plan. So, when you come to our Palm Harbor, St. Petersburg, or Largo, FL, office for a consultation with Dr. Mackay and his team, ask questions. We will be more than happy to answer them.
For more information, call us today at (727) 527-2888, or request your appointment online. We hope to see you very soon.